PRE-DESIGN

Whether you're building a new home, developing a commercial space, or renovating an existing property, the process can feel overwhelming. Our role as architects is to guide you from the initial concept through to project completion—no matter the scale or type of project.

Our process begins with the pre-design phase, where we gather essential information about your site and goals. We conduct a thorough analysis of the property, clarify your vision, and align expectations around budget and timeline. To better understand your priorities, we can provide a tailored questionnaire to help distinguish between critical needs and desired features—whether for a residence, office, retail space, or other facility. This early phase helps us build a solid foundation and direction for the design process.

Next, we document existing conditions, conduct a photographic inventory, perform a site analysis, and review applicable zoning and building regulations to ensure compliance and feasibility from the outset.

SCHEMATIC DESIGN

After pre-design, we move into schematic design — where big-picture ideas start to take shape.

In this phase, we use everything we’ve learned to explore different concepts and layouts that capture your vision and priorities. We collaborate closely with our clients to make sure the essential goals and functions are addressed early on. By the end of schematic design, it’s often a good time to get preliminary pricing or budget feedback from contractors or builders.

DESIGN DEVELOPMENT

Once the overall vision for your project is established, we move into the design development + permitting phase. At this stage, the big layout decisions are set, and we focus on refining details, materials, and systems while preparing for permit submission.

During this phase, we translate the design into detailed drawings and documents — the technical roadmap your contractor or builder will use to bring the project to life. By the end, we’ve submitted the required drawings and forms to the local planning or building department for review.

CONSTRUCTION DOCUMENTS

o keep the process efficient, we often begin the construction documents phase while the permit drawings are under review. This stage typically involves less client participation, as our focus shifts to the technical details that define exactly how the project will be built.

During this time, we also refine selections for materials, finishes, and products. Whether it’s exterior cladding, flooring, lighting, or fixtures, we curate digital and physical samples to review together and ensure each choice aligns with the overall design vision.

BIDDING AND CONTRACTOR SELECTION

This phase often overlaps with other phases as we help guide the process of contractor selection.

Although ARCSANO is not affiliated with any contractors in particular, we’ve worked with several companies that we often recommend based on project size, scope and schedule. Hiring a contractor can be an overwhelming process for homeowners and developers because that’s where the bulk of your project budget is going.

CONSTRUCTION ADMINISTRATION / OBSERVATION

As your architect, we continue to advocate for you during the construction process. We’re on call to answer questions from the contractor, as well as attend regular site visits to observe construction progress.

Site visits are scheduled for key moments of the construction process. They can include foundation layout, framing layout, rough framing, rough electrical / plumbing, material finishing and final walk-through.

At the end of construction, we walk through the house with you and the contractor to identify any final “punchlist” items that need to be completed.